Balancing Corporate & Homesteading Lifestyles
What Kind of Bird Flu is Going Around in 2025? A Detailed Look at the Current Outbreaks
As of January 2025, the most concerning avian influenza strain circulating globally is Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1, which has caused significant outbreaks in both domestic poultry and wild bird populations. This strain has been responsible for mass poultry culls, economic losses, and…
How Bird Flu is Spread: Understanding the Risks and the Role of Flyways
Bird flu, or avian influenza (AI), is a highly contagious viral disease that affects both domestic and wild birds, with occasional spillover into mammals and even humans. The virus spreads through various pathways, making it a persistent threat to poultry farms, backyard flocks, and…
Can Bird Flu Affect Dogs and Other Animals? What Chicken and Pet Owners Need to Know
With the ongoing spread of bird flu, many backyard chicken keepers and pet owners are wondering whether their dogs and other animals are at risk. While bird flu primarily affects birds, certain strains—especially Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1 —have been known to infect…
Understanding Bird Flu Risks for Backyard Chickens
Avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, is a growing concern for poultry keepers worldwide. While backyard flocks are generally at lower risk compared to large commercial operations, certain factors can increase vulnerability depending on your flock’s environment and management practices. In this article,…
Are Bird Flu Cases Rising?
Yes, bird flu cases are currently on the rise, both globally and in the United States. According to data from the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) and the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 strain has…
Are Bird Flu and Avian Flu the Same
With recent outbreaks making headlines, many people are wondering: Are avian flu and bird flu the same thing? The short answer is yes — avian flu and bird flu refer to the same disease. However, the terms are used in different contexts, and understanding…
How and Why Are Commercial Flocks Getting Bird Flu Despite Strong Biosecurity Measures?
Despite stringent biosecurity protocols, commercial poultry flocks continue to be affected by avian influenza (bird flu), raising questions about how the virus breaches these defenses. The reality is that biosecurity measures reduce risk but cannot completely eliminate it, especially when dealing with a virus…
Bird Flu: Separating Fact from Fiction and Understanding the Impact on Egg Prices
What Is Bird Flu and Why Is It Serious? Bird flu is a highly contagious viral disease caused by influenza A viruses that primarily affect wild birds and domestic poultry. The most concerning strain, H5N1, can cause severe illness and high mortality rates in…
Outbreak Response Plan: Managing a Marek’s Disease Outbreak
A Marek’s Disease outbreak can be overwhelming, but having a clear and actionable plan in place can help you manage the situation effectively. While there is no cure for Marek’s Disease, quick action can reduce further spread in your flock, protect neighboring flocks, and…
Disclosure Guidelines for Selling Birds or Eggs
If you are selling chicks, hatching eggs, or adult birds from a flock that has been exposed to Marek’s Disease, it’s critical to follow ethical and transparent practices. Disclosing the health status of your flock is not only a moral responsibility but also helps…
